Calls to understand the legal framework and implications of copyright acts have intensified. This is crucial for composers, musicians, and all stakeholders in the music industry.
The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) carried out a workshop on copyrights in Gweru which attracted several musicians, composers, and music students in the province.
ZIMURA board chairperson Alberth Nyathi also took time to urged artists to value their property.
“The workshop has been a success, people are used to property in terms of a house, car, etc however, it should be known that music is someone’s property.
“When you buy that song, you are buying it for yourself but never play it at a business premise without a ZIMURA licence.
“It is happening globally and intellectual property rights are a serious issue worldwide.
“The attendance proved that people are now serious about intellectual property.
“Lecturers and students attended the event. I am thoroughly impressed,” he said.
Henry Makombe, ZIMURA deputy director, hailed artists for showing interest in copyright issues.
“I am very excited by the participation, students, police, broadcasting stations, NPA, and National Arts Council all showed interest in these issues.
“People are keen in trying to understand how copyright infringement is done and how they can benefit from their works.
“Broadcasters also attended and urged musicians to submit music that fit their categories.
“We call upon composers, and singers to be part of this awareness so that they also get their royalties from their works.”
Resistance Mutema, an MSU student also appreciated the workshop.
“You have to make your work original and you have to perform zviri original, and if you take someone’s work, that’s an infringement.”
Shurugwi-based musician, Michael Sakala who leads Gambu Jazz Band said:
“We have learned quite a lot as artists. From today onwards, we will be sharing on the importance of copyrights and protection of intellectual property.”
Alex Sekela of Super Sounds of the Chipendani also commended other artists to be protective of their property.
“We had not received such a meeting, to those who are still upcoming, let’s take note of the copyrights act issues seriously.
“The issue of intellectual property should be respected and as musicians, we have to be protective of our music so that we get some royalties from it.”
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